Diversity is a hot topic on campuses today, as schools learn to value, understand, and celebrate cultural differences represented by their students, faculty, and staff. A key question is how these conversations about diversity become more than skin deep.

To address these concerns, Princeton Seminary and The Kaleidoscope Institute have launched a new cultural proficiency and diversity competency initiative called Navigating the Waters: Pathways to Embracing Diversity, implemented under the auspices of the Office of Multicultural Relations.

To help guide the effort and get a feel for the climate at PTS, a survey about diversity matters on campus was distributed to more than 650 people in the fall. The more than 400 responses received from students, faculty, staff, and alumni/ae are being analyzed to develop an implementation plan that will address the concerns raised most frequently.

Through its curriculum and programs, the Seminary provides a forum for supportive interaction among faculty, staff, and students that celebrates differences in race, ability, gender, culture, age, sexual orientation, and religion/denomination. Helping individuals interact effectively with diverse groups of people is central to this program and to the Seminary’s mission of discovery and vocational exploration.

Schools and an increasing number of churches in the U.S. are characterized by very diverse constituencies. This diversity provides organizations like Princeton Seminary the opportunity to prepare women and men for service to Christ in new, creative, and imaginative ministries. For more information about this initiative, email [email protected]